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Care & Maintenance

Fountain Set-Up

Specific assembly instructions are included with the purchase of each Campania fountain. Please check that these instructions and all fountain parts are included before setting up the fountain.

The following general guidelines should be followed for every fountain set-up:

  • The fountain should be set up on a flat, level surface to ensure proper water flow. It is not recommended that fountains be placed directly on grass or dirt.
  • A properly prepared base of gravel, flagstone, or other hardscaping material is preferred to maintain stability.
  • Check that the pump works BEFORE assembly by placing it in a bucket of water and operating the pump.
  • All pumps are submersible and must be completely underwater to function properly. Position the channel opening at the base of each fountain toward the electrical outlet to be used since the pump cord will be threaded through this opening.
  • A fountain pump should only be connected to a properly grounded 110 volt (AC only) GFCI protected receptacle.

General Fountain Care & Maintenance

Proper care for all fountains should include the following important tips:

  • Consistent filling is required to maintain a proper water level and ensure that the pump remains totally submerged. If the level of water is too low, the pump will be damaged. How often a fountain should be filled depends on water flow and specific weather conditions in which the fountain is running. Appropriate water level is also required for proper fountain performance.
  • Keep pump inflow free of debris to insure proper water flow. Periodic cleaning of the pump will extend its life.
  • If desired, the fountain may be cleaned with mild soap (ie Dawn) and a soft bristle brush or cloth. DO NOT use bleach as this may affect the patina.
  • Algaecides available at pond supply or garden shops can be used to combat the buildup of algae.
  • Always follow general winter care for fountains to extend the life of your fountain.

Winter Care

Winterizing your fountain is essential for preserving its beauty and longevity. Fountains made of cast stone, glass fiber reinforced concrete and other materials can undergo expansion and contraction with changing temperatures and humidity levels.

To protect your fountain during the winter, it’s crucial to prevent the accumulation of snow, ice, and water within it. When water freezes, it expands. This expansion can cause chips, cracks, and fine lines in your fountain when the water eventually melts.

So when temperatures fall below 32° F or 0° Celsius or humidity levels change drastically, you’ll need to follow the steps below.

  1. Clean Your Fountain: It’s important to remove any lingering dirt, debris, or algae build-up from your fountain’s surface and pump before you winterize it. This can be accomplished by using a gentle, readily available detergent like Dawn soap, along with a soft bristle brush or cloth. You can also use a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water as another option. Never use bleach or any harsh chemicals, as they can corrode the fountain’s finish. 
  1. Drain Your Fountain: Begin by removing all stoppers and drain plugs to completely drain the fountain. This is done to ensure that water doesn’t accumulate anywhere in the fountain. The freezing and thawing of water can cause chips, cracks and fine lines to occur along with damage to the pump. You can use a shop vac or sponge to remove any last drops of water so your fountain is completely dry. 
  1. Remove Components: Once drained, carefully wrap the internal components (pump, stoppers, drainpipes, tubing, finials, auto-refill devices, and lights) in old towels or blankets for storage indoors. 
  1. Bring Indoors (if possible): Ideally, it’s best to store your fountain indoors if size and weight permit.
  2. Store in a dry, covered location: If bringing your fountain indoors isn’t possible, then store it in a dry, protected location like a shed, barn, covered porch or patio.

With large fountains, this is not practical so you’ll need to follow the instructions below.

  1. Elevate Your Fountain: Fountains left outside are at risk of freezing to the ground during winter, causing cracks in the base. This occurs because ground moisture can seep into the pores of the fountain’s base. Try raising your fountain above ground as a preventative measure.
  2. Cover Your Fountain: Use a Campania fountain cover or other breathable, water-resistant material to protect your fountain. Make sure that water will not be able to accumulate in any bowls or the basin, and freeze.

The Campania fountain cover should be taut around the fountain and securely fastened at the bottom opening with the locking drawstring to prevent snow or water from pooling in the cover.

Inspect your fountain periodically to ensure that the cover is secure and no water is accumulating in any fountain component.

DO NOT COVER IN PLASTIC!